So, we’re off to Seychelles for a two-week adventure in mid-September, and it’s all starting to feel wonderfully real! We’ve got our itinerary pretty well mapped out for the first part of the trip. Six glorious days are planned for La Digue, where we’ve opted for a self-catering stay near Anse Severe. After soaking up the unique charm of La Digue, we’ll hop over to Praslin for another four days, again choosing the self-catering route, this time soaking in the tranquility around Anse Lazio. But it’s the final leg of our journey on Mahe that’s got my thoughts buzzing a bit, especially since we’ll be car-free for the whole trip. We’ve got three nights before our flight home, which departs in the late afternoon, around 4 pm. I’m really keen on making those last few days feel special.
Considering Our Mahe Stay
My initial thought for Mahe was to split our time a bit, hoping to get the best of both worlds. I was envisioning two nights in a slightly more upscale, beachfront hotel, something a little “treat yourself” after our self-catering adventures. Then, for our very last night, I thought it would be interesting to stay in Victoria. The idea there was to truly get a feel for the “city” before we leave and, crucially, to have a convenient spot where we could leave our luggage after checkout on our final day. Being able to explore Victoria freely for a few hours before heading to the airport, without lugging our bags everywhere, sounds incredibly appealing. It’s all about making that departure day as smooth and enjoyable as possible, you know?
I’ve actually stumbled upon a place on Glacis Beach that’s really caught my eye. It looks absolutely lovely and, while still self-catering, it seems to strike a nice balance. What’s particularly attractive about it are the seemingly good amenities nearby – a couple of decent restaurants and a shop, all within a ten-minute walk. That’s a huge plus when you don’t have a car, as convenience becomes paramount. The thought of relaxing there, with easy access to essentials and dining, sounds incredibly peaceful. It’s the kind of place you could really unwind in after all the island hopping. However, choosing Glacis Beach would mean potentially skipping out on Beau Vallon, and that’s where my dilemma really begins. Is it a mistake to miss Beau Vallon?
Beau Vallon vs. Glacis Beach: A Dilemma
The Beau Vallon question is lingering in my mind. On one hand, Glacis Beach looks so serene and appealing. On the other hand, Beau Vallon is often talked about as a vibrant hub. Is it folly to skip it? Or is Beau Vallon just a bit too touristy for what we’re looking for? I’m picturing a lively atmosphere with more options for bars and restaurants, but sometimes “lively” can also mean “overcrowded,” and that’s not quite the vibe we’re chasing for our quiet escape. Perhaps we’d be better off right in the thick of things at Beau Vallon, in a nice hotel where everything is literally on our doorstep? The convenience of having multiple dining options and beach activities readily available without having to think about transportation is definitely a compelling argument. I’m torn between the quiet charm of a less frequented beach and the potential energy and offerings of a more popular spot. It’s a classic travel conundrum, isn’t it?
We’re really open to any thoughts, suggestions, or advice on this. Hearing from people who know Mahe, or who have faced similar choices, would be incredibly helpful. It’s tricky trying to balance relaxation with a desire to experience different facets of the island. We want to make the most of those precious last three nights, ensuring they feel both indulgent and authentically Seychellois.
Finding a Spot in Victoria
Then there’s the Victoria night. Finding accommodation there seems to be a bit of a challenge. It genuinely looks like there aren’t a huge number of options right in the town itself. This makes planning that last night a bit trickier than I anticipated. We’re looking for a comfortable, clean place, nothing overly luxurious, but somewhere that allows us to easily access the city’s offerings and, most importantly, provides the baggage storage solution I mentioned earlier. Any specific recommendations for a decent place in Victoria for just one night would be a lifesaver. It’s surprising, given its status as the capital, that the lodging choices appear so limited. Perhaps I’m not looking in the right places, or maybe the charm of Victoria lies more in its daytime exploration than its overnight stays.
The Checkout Day Conundrum
Honestly, the thought of moving locations on the very last day – checking out of one hotel and then checking into another just for one night in Victoria – isn’t ideal. It would be so much nicer to just stay in one place for all three nights on Mahe. It eliminates the hassle of packing, unpacking, and navigating between hotels, which, without a car, would involve taxis or buses – an added layer of stress we’d rather avoid at the end of our trip. However, if we do stay all three nights in one beachfront location, we’d encounter the classic “checkout day” problem. After checking out around noon, we’d be stuck on a beach, or generally without access to proper facilities to refresh ourselves, get changed out of sandy clothes, and generally prepare for our evening flight. The idea of arriving at the airport feeling sticky and dishevelled isn’t very appealing. So, that’s the trade-off: convenience of not moving versus having amenities on our departure day. It’s a minor detail, but one that can significantly impact the final hours of a fantastic holiday. We want to feel relaxed and ready to travel home, not stressed and grimy.
Every piece of advice or personal experience shared would be genuinely appreciated. We’re trying to weave together a perfect ending to what promises to be an incredible adventure in Seychelles!
Frequently Asked Questions About Seychelles Trips
Are cars necessary for getting around Mahe, La Digue, and Praslin?
While having a car offers flexibility, it’s definitely not essential, especially if you’re comfortable using alternative transport. On La Digue, bicycles are the primary mode of transport and highly recommended for exploring the island’s charming lanes and beaches. On Praslin, local buses, taxis, and even scooter rentals are available. Mahe has a comprehensive bus network that covers most areas, and taxis are always an option. For island hopping, ferries are the main way to travel between Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue. It really depends on your travel style and how much you want to explore off the beaten path. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace and sticking to specific areas, relying on local transport and taxis works perfectly fine, but it might require a bit more planning of your daily excursions.
What kind of accommodation should I expect when self-catering in Seychelles?
Self-catering accommodations in Seychelles typically range from charming guesthouses and bungalows to private villas and apartments. Many offer well-equipped kitchens, living areas, and private outdoor spaces like verandas or gardens. These options are fantastic for travelers who enjoy preparing their own meals, perhaps with fresh local ingredients bought from markets, and who prefer a more independent and homely feel. They often provide a wonderful opportunity to experience the local lifestyle and are a great way to manage your budget, especially compared to resort stays. It’s common to find self-catering rentals close to beaches or local villages, offering a blend of convenience and tranquility.
Is Beau Vallon too touristy, or is it a good place to stay on Mahe?
Beau Vallon Bay on Mahe is indeed one of the more popular and lively areas for tourists due to its beautiful long beach, calm waters perfect for swimming, and a wide array of amenities. It features numerous hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, bars, and water sports operators. While it offers a vibrant atmosphere and a lot of conveniences, some visitors might find it a bit “touristy” compared to other quieter parts of Mahe. However, its popularity also means there’s a buzzing night market (especially on Wednesdays) and plenty of options for dining and entertainment. If you appreciate a lively environment, easy access to various services, and don’t mind a crowd, Beau Vallon can be an excellent choice. If you prefer more secluded beaches and a quieter, more relaxed pace, you might consider other areas of Mahe like Glacis, Anse Royale, or Port Launay.
What are the best activities to do in Victoria for a short visit?
For a short visit to Victoria, Seychelles’ charming capital, you can easily experience its key highlights. A must-see is the Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, a bustling hub where you can find fresh produce, fish, spices, and local crafts. It’s a fantastic spot to soak in the local atmosphere and pick up souvenirs. Don’t miss the iconic Victoria Clock Tower, a miniature replica of London’s Big Ben, which stands proudly in the town center. The Smallest Capital City in the World, Victoria also boasts a lovely botanical garden, the National Museum of Seychelles, and a few art galleries. Strolling through the streets, admiring the colonial architecture, and grabbing a local meal at a café are also delightful ways to spend your time. Most of these attractions are within easy walking distance of each other, making Victoria perfect for a concentrated half-day or full-day exploration.
How can I manage my luggage on my last day in Seychelles before an afternoon flight?
Managing luggage on your last day, especially with an afternoon flight after checking out of your accommodation, is a common concern. Several strategies can help. If you’re staying in a hotel, inquire about late checkout options (though this often comes with an additional fee) or if they offer luggage storage facilities for guests after checkout. Many hotels are happy to hold your bags for a few hours. If you’re in a self-catering rental, you might be able to negotiate a slightly later departure with your host, or arrange a place to leave your bags if you’re staying near a trusted local. Alternatively, if you plan to spend time in Victoria, some guesthouses or even main bus terminals might offer storage for a fee, though this is less common and would require prior investigation. Some travelers even opt to book a less expensive hotel room for the last night in Victoria specifically for the convenience of luggage storage and access to amenities before their flight, as we’re considering.
References
Seychelles Tourism Board
Seychelles.com
Various travel forums and blogs on Seychelles travel
Your Seychelles Adventure Awaits!
Don’t let the small details dampen your spirits. This is your chance to craft an unforgettable final few days in paradise! Whether you choose the tranquil shores of Glacis, the vibrant energy of Beau Vallon, or devise a clever plan to maximize your time in Victoria, the key is to make it your own. We’d love to hear your thoughts and help you fine-tune these plans. Share your preferences, your wildest hopes for those final moments on Mahe, and let’s brainstorm together. Your perfect Seychellois farewell is just a conversation away!
